Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake
If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake! This cake is not just delicious; it’s a beloved family favorite that brings everyone together. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a family gathering, this cake fits right in and adds a touch of sweetness that everyone will adore.
The best part? Its delightful cinnamon swirl makes it look as beautiful as it tastes. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe holds such a special place in my heart.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, even novice bakers can whip this up with confidence.
- Family-Friendly Delight: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s dessert after dinner or a sweet treat for brunch, this cake shines in any setting.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can bake it ahead of time, saving you stress when entertaining guests.
- Deliciously Moist: The combination of sour cream and butter ensures each slice is soft and tender.

Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that I’m sure you’ll find in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delightful treat!
For the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
For the Swirl:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:
- Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch and flavor contrast to the soft cake.
- Try Different Spices: Swap out the cinnamon for nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a unique twist.
- Incorporate Fruit: Add fresh apples or raisins to the batter for extra sweetness and texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend for an equally delicious version.
How to Make Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Pan & Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your bundt pan thoroughly. This step is crucial because it prevents sticking and ensures your cake comes out perfectly shaped.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout your batter, which is key for achieving that lovely rise in your cake.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy—about 3–4 minutes. This step creates air pockets in the batter that result in a tender crumb. Don’t rush it; take your time here!
Step 4: Add Eggs, Sour Cream & Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until everything is combined. These ingredients add moisture and flavor, making every slice irresistible.
Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Mix & Milk
Now it’s time to alternate adding the dry mix and milk into your butter mixture. Start with about one-third of the dry ingredients, followed by half of the milk. Repeat until everything is just combined. Remember—overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so mix gently!
Step 6: Assemble the Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Pour half of your cake batter into the prepared bundt pan. Sprinkle that heavenly cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over it before pouring on the remaining batter.
Step 7: Create the Marble Effect
Using a butter knife, gently swirl through the batter in a figure-eight motion. This creates beautiful layers without over-mixing — you want those lovely ribbons of cinnamon to shine through!
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place your bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes. Keep an eye on it; when a toothpick inserted into the thickest part comes out clean, it’s ready!
Step 9: Cool & Release
Allow your cake to cool in its pan for about 15 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack. Let it cool completely before glazing—patience pays off here!
Step 10: Optional Glaze
If you’re feeling fancy (and who isn’t?), whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle this delightful glaze over your cooled cake for an extra touch of sweetness!
Enjoy every slice of your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake! It’s bound to become a cherished recipe in your home just like it has mine!
Pro Tips for Making Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake
Baking is all about precision and care, so here are some pro tips to ensure your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake turns out beautifully every time!
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your butter, eggs, and sour cream to sit at room temperature before mixing. This helps them combine more easily, producing a smoother batter and a fluffier cake.
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Don’t Overmix: When incorporating the dry ingredients with the wet, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake as it develops the gluten in the flour too much.
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Swirl Gently: While creating the marble effect, use a light hand with your knife. Too vigorous swirling will blend the cinnamon-sugar layer too much into the batter instead of creating distinct layers.
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Check for Doneness: Since ovens can vary, start checking your cake around the 50-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the thickest part of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done!
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Cool Completely Before Glazing: If you rush this step and glaze while warm, the icing will melt into the cake rather than sitting beautifully on top. This ensures that you get that lovely finish and sweet crunch when you slice into it.
How to Serve Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake
Serving your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake can be just as enjoyable as baking it! Here are some delightful ideas to present this scrumptious dessert beautifully.
Garnishes
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Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a luscious touch without any dairy. It complements the cinnamon flavor wonderfully.
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Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for an extra crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs nicely with the sweet cake.
Side Dishes
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the bundt cake. Try using berries, melon, and citrus for vibrant colors and tastes.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving slices of this moist cake alongside creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful warm-and-cold experience that’s hard to resist!
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Coffee or Tea: Offering brewed coffee or tea enhances your dessert experience. The warmth of these beverages perfectly complements the spices in your bundt cake.
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Yogurt Parfait: A simple yogurt parfait made with layers of yogurt, granola, and fruit is a fantastic addition for breakfast or brunch when serving this delicious cake.
Enjoy crafting your perfect presentation while savoring each bite of this delightful Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is perfect for meal prep or enjoying throughout the week. Its rich flavors only get better over time, making it an excellent choice for busy days or special occasions.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate the cake in a sealed container to keep it fresh for up to a week.
Freezing
- Wrap the cooled bundt cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; when ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.
Reheating
- If you prefer your cake warm, slice individual pieces and microwave them for about 10-15 seconds.
- Alternatively, place slices in a toaster oven at low heat until warmed through, ensuring you don’t dry them out.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious cake.
Can I make the Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake without sour cream?
Yes! You can replace sour cream with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like almond yogurt for similar moisture and tang.
How can I ensure my Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake doesn’t stick to the pan?
Greasing and flouring your bundt pan thoroughly is key. Additionally, letting the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting helps prevent sticking.
What should I do if my Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is too dense?
Overmixing can cause density. Make sure to mix just until ingredients are combined and avoid beating too long after adding the dry ingredients.
Can I add nuts to my Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add great texture and flavor. Just sprinkle them into the cinnamon-sugar swirl layer before pouring in the remaining batter.
Final Thoughts
I hope you give this Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake a try! It’s not just a dessert—it’s a warm hug in cake form, perfect for sharing with friends and family. As you bake, let those lovely aromas fill your kitchen and bring smiles all around. Enjoy every bite of this delightful treat, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors that speak to you. Happy baking!
Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake, a delightful dessert that promises to warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth. This easy-to-make cake features a rich, buttery base infused with a heavenly swirl of cinnamon and brown sugar, making it a perfect treat for any occasion—be it a weeknight dinner, a brunch gathering, or a special celebration. With its beautiful appearance and moist texture, this bundt cake is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy each slice with or without the optional glaze for an unforgettable experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk (for glaze)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour your bundt pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in sour cream and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with milk until just combined.
- For the swirl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Pour half the batter into the pan, sprinkle with swirl mixture, then top with remaining batter.
- Use a knife to create swirls in the batter.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before inverting onto a wire rack.
- If desired, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth and drizzle over the cooled cake.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
